LIVERPOOL One will be transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas – with an ice palace and the city’s first big wheel.

Children will get to meet Santa at his magical palace and shoppers will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city from the Liverpool One wheel.

Celebrations get under way from 4pm tomorrow wed with Christmas characters and music from Merseyside choirs and bands.

Santa will open the doors to his Ice Palace on Paradise Street and welcome in youngsters to tell him their Christmas wishes from 5pm.

A 60metre-high wheel – a smaller version of the London Eye – will welcome its first guests on Chavasse Park from 5pm on Thursday.

And a colony of Liverpool’s newly-arrived Go Penguins will be on display for the day throughout the outdoor shopping centre.

Chris Bliss, estate director of Liverpool ONE, said: "Go Penguin plays a big part in the Christmas celebrations throughout the city and Liverpool ONE is no exception with nine penguins making it their home.

"Customers can look out for the Cath Kidston designed penguin and the Liverpool ONE competition winner’s penguin which will arrive on Sunday November 22.

"Families will be able to take a break from shopping and enjoy a magical 3D Christmas mini-movie called Tinkerdoodle.

"The 3D experience lasts 15 minutes and takes viewers on a magical journey with Santa as he tries to deliver presents on Christmas Eve but his new elf Tinkerdoodle causes chaos."

"There really is something for all the family this Christmas at Liverpool ONE."Shops at Liverpool ONE will be open until 8pm.

Debenhams is staying open until midnight to celebrate its Mega Day event.